10 Essential Tips for Living at Home During a Renovation

Proven Strategies to Make Living On-Site Easier

Living through a complete home renovation can feel like a rollercoaster: exciting one moment, stressful the next. As a local, Adelaide-based renovation business with over 27 years of experience, we can confidently say we’ve seen it all. Whether tackling a quick bathroom update or transforming your home, every project has unique challenges. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming! With the top 10 practical tips from our knowledgeable team, you’ll not only survive living on-site during your renovation… you might even enjoy the process! So, let’s dive into advice from a team who’s been there, done that, and helped countless South Australians navigate their renovation journeys with success.

1. It’s All in the Planning

The key to a smooth renovation experience lies in planning. Before the work begins, sit down with your builder to create a timeline, outline what will be off-limits, and discuss potential disruptions. Remember, even the best-laid plans can face unforeseen delays, so build flexibility into your renovation schedule. Understanding the scope of the project upfront helps manage expectations and avoids unnecessary stress later.

2. Establish a Clear Timeline with Milestones

Speaking of scope, setting milestones throughout the project can also help you stay focused on progress rather than challenges. For example, completing the demolition phase or finalising cabinetry installation are tangible achievements to look forward to, and they can help support morale during more difficult periods when the inconvenience associated with renovations becomes more pronounced.

3. Prepare for Unexpected Costs

Unexpected costs are part of renovations, so setting aside a budget for temporary fixes is a smart move. For example, you could ensure you have the savings to cover a short hotel stay during particularly disruptive work, hire portable appliances, or even arrange for temporary storage. A financial buffer ensures you’re ready for surprises without derailing the project. Not to mention the stress it will lift off your shoulders! No one likes to face financial uncertainty, so preparing for all manner of scenarios is always wise.

4. Communicate Regularly with Your Builder

Planning is difficult if you don’t have a clear picture of your renovation’s trajectory. This is where clear communication with your builder or renovation company becomes essential. Schedule regular check-ins to stay informed about progress, delays, or changes. Sharing a renovation calendar can help keep everyone on the same page. A strong partnership is one of the best ways to ensure the process stays on track. At InterConstruct, we prioritise clear and open communication with our clients, ensuring transparency and that expectations are aligned at all project stages. While going the extra mile may seem daunting for some renovators, in our experience, the peace of mind and long-term satisfaction are well worth it. After all, building strong relationships with homeowners (and seeing the joy on their faces once the renovation is complete) is one of the biggest perks of the job.

5. Create a Dedicated Living Space

Renovating doesn’t mean you need to live in chaos. Setting up a “safe zone” in your home is an excellent idea. This can be a room or corner far from the construction zone where you can unwind. If your kitchen is being redone, consider creating a temporary cooking space with essentials like a microwave, kettle, and toaster. In Adelaide, where outdoor living is a way of life in the warmer months, a barbecue area can make the perfect stand-in for a kitchen.

6. Prioritise Dust and Noise Management

Yes, it’s inevitable. Your renovation will create a mess. However, you absolutely can minimise the impact. Use plastic drop sheets and door seals to contain dust in work areas. Investing in an air purifier can help keep the air clean, particularly if you suffer from allergies or have kids at home. For noise, talk to your builder about scheduling the loudest tasks when you’re not around, or head out to a local park or cafe to escape the racket.

7. Keep Safety Front and Centre

Renovation sites can be hazardous, especially if you have kids or pets. Mark restricted areas and communicate clearly with everyone in the household about safety rules. Consider temporary fencing or enclosures in homes with curious pets to keep them away from busy, high-traffic areas.

8. Maintain Daily Routines

A little normalcy can go a long way. Stick to regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and other household routines to keep life running smoothly. If you work from home, set up a quiet, dust-free workspace. Stability is especially important for families with young children, as it helps everyone feel less overwhelmed.

9. Stay Organised with Storage Solutions

Moving furniture and belongings out of renovation zones can clutter the rest of your home. Including tips on temporary storage, like hiring a storage unit, using stackable crates, or storing items in a friend’s garage, can help you manage your space better, especially in smaller duplexes, apartments, and townhouses common in Adelaide’s inner suburbs.

10. Consider Temporary Utilities

When key utilities like water, gas, or power are disrupted, temporary solutions can be a lifesaver. This might include portable toilets, outdoor showers, or battery-operated lighting.

The Finish Line is Worth the Journey

Complete home renovations are a marathon, not a sprint. There will be noise, dust, and potentially even delays, but keeping your eyes on the prize, a beautifully transformed home, will make the journey worthwhile. Celebrate milestones along the way, like the first coat of paint or seeing new cabinetry installed. At InterConstruct, we’ve guided countless clients through this process, helping them transform their homes into spaces they love. If you’re ready to take the plunge, contact our team online or at 0426 118 900. We’re here to make your renovation as smooth and stress-free as possible.